Evidence supporting the use of: L-ornithine
For the health condition: Body Building

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

L-ornithine is an amino acid involved in the urea cycle, which helps remove ammonia from the body. Its use in bodybuilding is primarily based on its role in reducing fatigue and supporting athletic performance, rather than directly building muscle. Some scientific studies have investigated L-ornithine supplementation for its potential to decrease exercise-induced fatigue. For example, a few small studies have found that oral L-ornithine supplementation (typically 2–6 grams per day) can reduce subjective feelings of fatigue after prolonged exercise, possibly by enhancing ammonia clearance and supporting the urea cycle. There is also limited evidence that L-ornithine, sometimes in combination with L-arginine, may stimulate growth hormone release, but these findings are inconsistent and often require high, impractical doses. Overall, the scientific support for L-ornithine in bodybuilding is weak. Most studies are small, use varying dosages, and focus on fatigue rather than direct muscle hypertrophy or strength gains. L-ornithine has not shown consistent benefits for muscle growth or body composition in well-controlled trials. Its use in bodybuilding is therefore only weakly supported by scientific evidence, mainly for its potential to reduce exercise fatigue, not to directly enhance muscle mass or strength.

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